What to Expect With an Alignment
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
If you're concerned about the tread on your tires, we recommend the “penny test” to check your tread depth. Simply insert a penny into your tire's tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 inch and it's time to replace your tires.
Recognizing Signs of Car Misalignment
Driving in Columbus presents unique challenges, from navigating local traffic to maintaining your car on Midwest roads.
Recognizing symptoms of misalignment is key:
- Uneven Tire Wear: Misaligned wheels often lead to tires wearing unevenly, reducing their lifespan.
- Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel isn't straight when driving, alignment might be the issue.
- Pulling to One Side: A steady drift to the left or right indicates a potential alignment problem.
Additionally, misalignment might lead to unusual vibrations or a squealing noise from your tires. These subtle indications, often overlooked, are signs that your vehicle's steering and suspension are not working in harmony. Addressing these issues with timely wheel alignment helps prevent further vehicle damage and decreases the risk of accidents.
Our Comprehensive Tire Alignment Services in Columbus
At Christian Brothers Automotive Polaris, we offer a range of alignment services tailored to meet your specific needs, including:
- Basic Alignment Check: A thorough inspection to determine if your vehicle needs an adjustment.
- Front-End Alignment: Focused on aligning the front wheels for straight driving.
- Four-Wheel Alignment: Comprehensive service for vehicles with adjustable rear suspensions.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Ensures all four wheels are square to each other and parallel to the ground.
Each type of alignment has its specific benefits and applicability based on your vehicle’s design and the common issues you might experience on Columbus roads. Whether you're driving a front-wheel-drive sedan or a four-wheel-drive SUV, our team carefully selects the appropriate alignment approach to provide the best results. We also offer personalized consultations to discuss any suspension concerns and advise on preventative maintenance.
Benefits of Proper Alignment
Alignment isn't just about keeping your car straight. It's an investment in your vehicle's longevity and efficiency.
Key advantages include:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Proper alignment reduces tire resistance, helping you save on gas.
- Extended Tire Life: Correct alignment prevents rapid or uneven tire wear, saving on replacement costs.
- Smoother Driving Experience: Alignments offer a smoother ride, minimizing steering wheel vibrations.
Maintaining well-aligned wheels is cost-effective and crucial for safe driving. Misalignments increase the effort your engine must exert to move the vehicle, which can lead to increased fuel consumption and higher emissions. Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned in Columbus contributes to a more sustainable environment and enhances your vehicle's efficiency on local roads.
Contact us at (614) 665-7008 or online to embark on your journey to better alignment and safer driving.
FAQs
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Q. "What is the difference between a wheel alignment and a wheel balance?"
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Q. "How often should I get a wheel alignment?"
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Q. "What causes bad alignment?"
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.